The Lakers opened up a roster spot when they released veteran point guard Jose Calderon, allowing them the chance to take a look at different young players for the remainder of the season. The first player they signed to a 10-day contract was David Nwaba.
Nwaba, who played for Los Angeles D-Fenders, is known for his defense and he showed that over the last couple of games. In fact he impressed Luke Walton and the coaches so much that the Lakers have signed him to a second 10-day contract according to Lakers Nation reporter Serena Winters:
General Manager Rob Pelinka's first signing: David Nwaba gets his second 10-day.
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) March 11, 2017
Walton has consistently praised Nwaba for his energy and defense both in games as well as practice. With the Lakers badly needing defensive help, it made sense for them to get a look at Nwaba, who has a game similar to that of Memphis Grizzlies standout Tony Allen.
This deal gives Nwaba five more games to prove that he belongs with the Lakers. After that, they will have to make a decision by either signing him for the rest of the season, or giving someone else a look since teams are not allowed to sign players to more than two 10-day contracts.
That will be an interesting decision Luke Walton and co. have to make when the time comes, especially if Nwaba keeps playing well or steps up even more. The Lakers likely want to get a look at a couple of different players before the year is over, but Nwaba could change those plans.
In five games with the Lakers Nwaba is averaging 2.6 points and 1.6 rebounds while shooting 44.4 percent from the field.
